Midwives’ attitudes, motivations, and barriers to neonatal resuscitation in a tertiary hospital, Ghana: A qualitative inquiry

Aim: Neonatal mortality is notably high, especially on the first day, with birth asphyxia demanding urgent resuscitation. In Ghana, midwives play a crucial role in maternal and newborn care, but their experiences with neonatal resuscitation remain largely unexplored. This study, therefore, sought to explore midwives’ experiences in neonatal resuscitation within the immediate postnatal period. Methods: An exploratory, descriptive research design was used. Twelve (12) midwives were interviewed face-to-face with the aid of a semi-structured interview guide. Each interview lasted between 45 min to 1 h. Data were analysed using inductive content analysis. Findings: Three (3) major themes and eleven (11) sub-themes emerged, highlighting midwives' attitudes toward neonatal resuscitation, motivations, and challenges, including compassionate care, a drive to save newborns, and issues like delays and inadequate preparation. Conclusion: Despite challenges, midwives' compassion in neonatal resuscitation was evident. Improved training and resources are recommended to ensure prompt, effective resuscitation and better newborn outcomes.